Fitness & Health

Why Swim?

January 4, 2012

New Years Day brings many resolutions to improve health and fitness. Swimming is an excellent whole-body, low-impact exercise that is accessible to many. Despite this, beginning a swimming program can be pretty intimidating for many; so why do it? as Corrie Pikul puts it, “it requires us to show grace, coordination and strength—all without the security of clothing.”

Bill Davis, a member of NC Masters, addresses this question in his excellent article, Why I Swim, on the USMS website. He explains the physical and mental health benefits of joining a USMS club.

Even though the vast majority of USMS clubs are very welcoming to “newbies,” it is still an intimidating step to take. As Corrie Pikul puts it in another excellent article, What Every Nervous Swimmer Needs to Know, “it requires us to show grace, coordination and strength—all without the security of clothing.” She presents the advice that two experienced swim coaches give to people who haven’t been in the pool for a while.